The systematic arrangement of the worm snakes (Typhlops) from the continental western hemisphere is presented. Allocations of many names historically assigned to Central and South American Typhlops are clarified. The continental Typhlops include nine species, two of which are described as new. The intraspecific variation of all species is explored within the limitations of known specimens. Three major radiations of New World Typhlops are postulated to account for the radiations of the present species groups.